Duchess of Oldenburg

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Russia

An old Russian variety introduced to the West in the early 1800s, notable for needing very little winter chill and ripening earlier than almost any other apple on this list.

Submitted by @system · 10 days ago

Counts toward the overall Top Tier Fruit list — every category's votes are compared the same way.

Growing & Care

Hardiness zone

USDA Zones 3-8

Chill hours

~400 hours

Pollination

Needs a pollinator; blooms early, so pairs well with other early-season varieties.

Care info

Reliable and forgiving. One of the best choices for a marginal or shorter-season climate.

Recommendations

Ripens early in the season — pick promptly, as fruit doesn't hold long on the tree once ripe.

Flavor Profile

Bright, tart, and juicy with a good balance of acid and sugar

Quick facts

Skin color

Red-striped over yellow

Size

Small to medium

Hardiness zone

USDA Zones 3-8

Chill hours

400

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